Description
Million Dollar Ravioli Lasagna Layers is an indulgent and hearty baked casserole combining layers of cheese ravioli, savory ground beef in marinara sauce, and a creamy blend of ricotta, cream cheese, and mozzarella. This comforting dish mimics classic lasagna flavors with a fun twist using frozen cheese ravioli, making it perfect for a family-friendly meal in under an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- Italian seasoning, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other Ingredients
- 25 oz frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) to allow it to properly heat while you prepare the other components.
- Cook the Beef Sauce: Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat to reduce greasiness. Add the marinara sauce and simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and uniformly blended.
- Assemble the Layers: In a baking dish, begin by spreading a layer of the beef and marinara sauce mixture. Place a layer of frozen cheese ravioli on top, followed by a layer of the cheese mixture. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over this layer. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous topping of mozzarella cheese.
- Add Parmesan and Bake: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top layer. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the dish is heated through.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the lasagna rest for 5 minutes to set before serving. This helps the layers firm up for easier slicing and enhances flavor absorption.
Notes
- Using frozen ravioli makes this recipe quick and convenient; no need to boil them separately.
- Drain the ground beef well to prevent a greasy final dish.
- Feel free to add additional Italian herbs like basil or oregano to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- Letting the lasagna rest after baking makes slicing easier and improves texture.
- This dish can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated before baking to save time on serving day.
